James A. Baker III to receive 2012 Tower Center Medal of Freedom

John Goodwin Tower Center presents the Medal of Freedom to James A. Baker, III, a senior statesmen and former Secretary of State (1989-1992). Click here to watch the ceremony

By Christina Voss, SMU News & Communications; October 16, 2012

Former U.S. Secretary of State James A. Baker III, will receive the Medal of Freedom from SMU’s John Goodwin Tower Center for Political Studies during formal ceremonies at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2012in McFarlin Auditorium. The Tower Center Medal of Freedom is presented every two years to an individual, or individuals, who have furthered the cause of freedom throughout the world.

This event is free to all SMU students, faculty and staff, but tickets are required. Students, faculty and staff should come to the McFarlin basement at 5 p.m. to receive two complimentary tickets per SMU ID. Business casual attire is suggested.

“James Baker is one of our country’s most accomplished statesmen and has provided strong, diplomatic leadership and a collaborative approach to politics throughout his career,” said SMU President R. Gerald Turner. “He led policies and progress that secured our nation’s presence on the world stage. We are proud to present him with the Tower Center Medal of Freedom.”

Baker’s public service and scholarship extend from the Cold War through the Arab Spring. He served in senior government positions under three different American presidents – Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush. Baker is honorary chairman of the James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy at Rice University and a senior partner in the law firm of Baker Botts.

“A broad bipartisan agreement is going to be necessary if we’re going to be able to stabilize our debt,” Baker said. “It is critical that Americans of goodwill, Republicans, Democrats and independents alike push our elected officials to make the compromises necessary to get on a sustainable economic track. The alternative of political gridlock and a diminished place for the United States in the global economic arena is unacceptable.”

The Tower Center, located within SMU’s Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences, supports teaching and research programs in international and domestic politics with an emphasis on global studies and national security policy. Additionally, it educates undergraduates in international relations, comparative politics and political institutions.

The Tower Center Medal of Freedom recognizes individuals who have contributed to the advancement of democratic ideals and to the security, prosperity and welfare of humanity. This year’s event chairs are Gene Jones, Linda Gibbons and Nancy Halbreich.